Don't Be Yourself - Why Authenticity Is Overrated (and What to Do Instead)

The surprising science of why being authentic holds you back—from the author of Why Do So Many Incompetent Men Become Leaders? (and How to Fix It).

"Just be yourself" might be the worst advice you''ve ever received.

For years, we''ve been told that authenticity is the key to success—that we should be true to ourselves, tune out others'' opinions, and lead with unwavering genuineness. This feel-good message has spawned countless self-help books, leadership seminars, and viral social media posts.

There''s just one problem: science says it''s wrong.

Drawing on decades of research, renowned psychologist Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic reveals an uncomfortable truth: our obsession with authenticity is backfiring. From Silicon Valley''s authenticity worship to failed diversity programs, he exposes how our fixation on "true selves" undermines both individual and organizational success, not to mention empathy and prosocial behavior.<